Cops in full alert forcelebration

CEBU, Philippines - Police forces in Region 7 will continue to be in full alert status during the celebration of the 113th Independence Day tomorrow, Sunday.

Regional Police Director Ager Ontog said the regional police office will provide security and traffic management for the annual Independence Day parade, which will be participated in by local government units, government agencies, and the police. Police forces have been on full alert since classes opened last Monday.

As far as the police are concerned, Ontog said a flag-raising ceremony will be held early morning at the Camp Sergio Osmeña along Osmeña Boulevard. The same will be followed by a simple program, as the main celebration of the PNP will be conducted in their headquarters in Luzon.

Ontog said a contingent from the PNP will be participating in the civic parade.   PNP Chief Raul Bacalzo has directed all regional directors, provincial directors, and chiefs of police to intensify police visibility, checkpoint operations, and mobile and foot patrol in accordance with the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS).

All Police Regional Offices (PROs) are also required to deploy Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) contingent in all places where programs and activities will be held.

Ontog encouraged the public to hang or attach flags on their respective houses to commemorate the country’s day of liberation from colonizers.

“Importante ang pag-celebrate ng Independence Day. Naging malayang bansa ang Pilipinas dahil dito. We always treasure this day so dapat nakawagayway ang mga flags in every house,” he said.

Supt. Teofilo Siclot, deputy provincial director for operations, said the presence of policemen in activities relating to the celebration of Independence Day would help deter criminal elements from implementing their plans. “Dili dapat mokompiyansa even Independence Day continuous gihapon among checkpoints and operations,” he said.

Meanwhile, Siclot reminded those who will be traveling to Toledo City to take alternative routes to avoid being caught in heavy traffic because of the city’s fiesta celebration.

The city’s Hinulawan Festival is set to start at 1pm until 3pm.

“Kung muagi sila dapat before the time or else they will be stranded, pwede ra after the parade,” Siclot said. He assured that security measures are in place to prevent untoward incidents. (FREEMAN)